How Much Does It Cost to Outsource Ready-to-Eat Meal Packs?

All You Need to Know in One Article

When it comes to outsourcing ready-to-eat (RTE) meal packs, pricing isn't one-size-fits-all. Costs vary depending on multiple factors, and manufacturers must take a comprehensive view to determine a reasonable and competitive rate. Common cost elements include ingredients, packaging, equipment and technology, order quantities, and any special formulation requirements.

Some production processes may even be constrained by the scale of equipment, which directly affects the delicate balance between cost and profitability. Let’s dive into the key components that influence the cost the most.

What’s Included in RTE Meal Pack OEM Costs?

1. Raw Material Costs

Raw materials are often the biggest chunk of OEM expenses. This includes the price, quality, and sourcing consistency of the ingredients. For example, seasonal items or hard-to-source ingredients tend to increase costs.

From our client experience, using 100% pure duck blood for spicy duck blood soup doubles the cost compared to mixed poultry blood. Similarly, using bird’s nest versus white fungus in a dessert results in dramatically different material costs. Custom recipes, unique flavors, or exclusive nutritional add-ins also require additional R&D and production fine-tuning—another cost consideration.

2. Production Costs

Production scale matters—a lot. Larger batches generally reduce per-unit cost due to economies of scale. Think of it this way: it takes the same time and labor to clean a pot whether it's used for half a batch or a full one. So yes, producing in larger quantities is usually more cost-efficient.

OEM factories often price based on order volume and frequency. Long-term, high-volume partnerships benefit from lower rates, while small or irregular orders tend to carry higher charges.

3. Logistics & Shipping

Since OEM production is typically done in bulk, logistics costs are a key factor. Shipping distance, temperature control (ambient, chilled, or frozen), order volume, and additional services (like palletizing or special handling) all play a role.

Frozen or refrigerated RTE meal packs cost more to transport than ambient ones. Shipping by pallet helps maintain product integrity and reduces per-unit freight costs. However, pricing also varies slightly between logistics providers, so be sure to consult your shipping partner for precise calculations.

How to Choose the Right OEM Manufacturer for Meal Packs

✅ Certified for Food Safety

When it comes to RTE meal packs, food safety is non-negotiable. Top-tier OEM manufacturers must meet rigorous standards and hold certifications such as:

• HACCP – Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points: a structured approach to identifying and managing food safety risks.

• ISO 22000 – A global standard for food safety management systems, emphasizing preventive control.

• GMP – Good Manufacturing Practice: ensures consistent quality and compliance throughout the production process.

Multiple certifications not only ensure compliance but also enhance marketability and consumer trust.

✅ Standardized Facilities & Processes

A standardized production line boosts efficiency, ensures consistent quality, reinforces brand credibility, and enhances workplace safety. Streamlined SOPs minimize variability, reduce errors, and keep production timelines on track—all critical for delivering a reliable product to market.

✅ Transparent Cost & Volume Planning

Your ideal OEM partner should align with your budget and production volume. Larger facilities offer better cost-efficiency, but boutique OEMs may provide more customized and flexible services. Based on your needs, strike the right balance between quality, capacity, and price.

✅ Fully Customizable Solutions

Premium OEM factories offer end-to-end customization, including recipe development, packaging design, production optimization, and even product testing. Tailor your meal pack to meet market preferences, dietary needs, or specific branding goals—perfect for standing out in a competitive food scene.

Why Work with KDDS for Your RTE Meal Pack OEM?

🌟 1. Guaranteed Quality

At KDDS, we partner only with certified food-safe OEMs equipped with advanced facilities and professional teams. Your product is manufactured under strict SOPs to deliver premium quality that exceeds expectations.

💰 2. Lower Costs, Less Risk

Skip the huge upfront investment in equipment and labor. Our partner OEMs leverage industry experience, bulk purchasing, and optimized workflows to cut your costs and reduce production risks.

🚀 3. Faster Time to Market

Focus on what you do best—marketing, sales, and product innovation—while we handle the production. Outsourcing allows you to expand faster, launch more SKUs, and tap into new markets with confidence.

Final Thoughts

RTE meal pack OEM is more than just outsourcing—it's a smart business strategy. It allows restaurant owners to reduce operational burdens, boost efficiency, and scale up without sacrificing quality.

For many food brands and restaurateurs constantly battling limited freezer space, ambient-temperature RTE products are becoming the next big thing.

If you’re looking for a trusted OEM partner for shelf-stable RTE packs, KDDS is ready to help. From R&D to tech transfers, strict QC, and post-production monitoring, we treat every product with professionalism and a craftsman’s spirit.

📩 Let’s build your next bestseller—together.